Trapital

This episode’s a bit different, no guests. I’m going solo to break down a big topic. For record labels, the market share they have relative to peers drives major decisions both macro and micro. They spend a lot to maintain that position. Is it all worth it? 01:33 Market Share’s Financial Impact 05:49 Challenges & Critiques 07:21 Cross-Industry Parallels 12:54 Indies vs. Majors Trapital Summit is on Wednesday September 10 in LA. Join us! This episode is presented by State Farm, the home for your small business needs. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Listen in for our Chartmetric Stat of the Week.

Tati Cirisano, a music industry expert and analyst, joins to discuss Taylor Swift’s music rights saga and its broader implications. They explore the financial impacts on key players like Scooter Braun and Swift herself. The conversation delves into the increasing trend of artists reclaiming ownership of their works and the evolving dynamics of fan loyalty in shaping these narratives. They ponder how history will remember Swift's fight for her masters and what it means for future artists navigating similar challenges.

Lonny Olinick, CEO of AWAL and a visionary in the music distribution landscape, discusses why artist development is more crucial than ever. He elaborates on how AWAL blends traditional label services with a focus on artist ownership, providing creative freedom and global reach. The conversation dives into Sony Music's acquisition of AWAL, revealing how it enhances career opportunities for artists without compromising their authenticity. Lonny also shares insights on navigating artist agreements, emphasizing support and patience in cultivating talent.

Sowmya Krishnamurthy, author of Fashion Killa, dives into the vibrant interplay between hip-hop and luxury fashion. She reveals how hip-hop has shifted from underground roots to mainstream dominance, influencing trends and collaborations. The duo discusses the role of nostalgia in celebrity culture and the need for authentic partnerships. They also examine the future landscape of fashion in 2025, spotlighting key figures like Kendrick Lamar and ASAP Rocky, and stress the importance of nurturing emerging talent in the industry.

Will Page, former chief economist at Spotify and author of 'Pivot', dives into the global impact of American music. He discusses the surprising dominance of U.S. artists amid a trend toward local sounds. The conversation touches on how American music continues to grow, the rise of hip-hop and country genres, and the shifting power dynamics in the streaming market. Page also highlights the new consumer empowerment in music consumption and shares insights about his creative projects, including his DJ mixes.

Oscar Hoglund, co-founder and CEO of Epidemic Sound, dives into the intersection of music and the creator economy. He reveals how AI is transforming music discovery and adaptation, ensuring artists are fairly compensated. Oscar discusses Epidemic Sound's unique revenue model and the challenges of navigating investor relations. He also highlights trends in content creation and the necessity for innovation in artist compensation, emphasizing the vital role of technology in fostering creativity in today’s saturated market.

Liz Dilts Marshall, Senior Finance Correspondent for Billboard, dives into the complexities of the music industry's economic landscape. She explores the rising investor interest in music assets despite geopolitical tensions. The discussion delves into how tariffs impact touring and live music, alongside the resilience of music revenues in fluctuating markets. Marshall compares today's music value to that of 1999, shedding light on modern consumption habits and the challenges artists face in a streaming-dominated world. A must-listen for anyone in the music business!

Tati Cirisano, an analyst at MIDiA Research, shares her expertise on the future of live music. The discussion kicks off with a thrilling draft of 2025's top music festivals like Glastonbury and their unique lineups. They dive into standout stadium and arena tours, exploring the artistry behind successful residencies. The conversation further delves into the dynamics of overperformers and underperformers in the industry. Expect fascinating insights into cultural moments and how they shape live music selection, all while predicting Spotify's top artist by 2025.

Ola Sars, Founder and CEO of Soundtrack, shares insights from his journey in revolutionizing B2B music streaming. He discusses the staggering untapped revenue opportunities, estimating a $40–50 billion global market. The conversation dives into the legal challenges businesses face when using music and the need for better licensing strategies. Ola also reveals innovative revenue models Soundtrack employs and highlights the importance of tailored services for small businesses. Get ready to rethink how your favorite shops use music!

Everyone’s talking about “superfans,” but artist management companies have been focused on their top fans for quite some time. We sat down with Jonathan Daniel from Crush Music. They manage Green Day, Miley Cyrus, Sia, Weezer, Fall Out Boy, Train, and others. We talk about Coachella, touring strategies, how they use data, business ventures and more. I also ask JD about acquisition offers, why they focus on rock and pop acts, and a whole lot more. We dive into the realities of managing creatives, building trust within teams, and striking the balance between creative freedom and structure. We also introduced a new segment to the show called “Market Moves” with our producer, Eric! 00:28 Coachella highlights 08:12 Touring Strategies and Challenges 19:12 Business Ventures and Sync Opportunities 33:45 Why Crush focuses on Rock and Pop 35:40 Market Moves This episode is presented by State Farm, the home for your small business needs. Like a good neighbor, State Farm is there. Listen in for our Chartmetric Stat of the Week. Trapital Summit - Super Early Bird Tix Available Until 4/30.